Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I have expressed concern about this organisation on several occasions. I stress that this is not a vendetta; my concern arises from representations I have had from people throughout the State, mainly members of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann itself. My priority is that the taxpayer be protected.

I welcome the Minister's decision to seek a lien on the properties that have been funded by the taxpayer. However, I am puzzled as to why he is effectively seeking it after the event. The Minister indicated that the Office of the Chief State Solicitor is currently processing a legal agreement in respect of these projects. Surely the legal agreement should have been secured before the money was paid out. Why is that only being done now? Is it because of concerns expressed by myself and others or otherwise?

There are 12 properties throughout the country funded by the State. When I asked about their ownership, I received an answer referring to leaseholders or owner occupiers. My difficulty is that I do not know the identity of the owner. The Minister has referred to a "group". Who are the members of this group? Does it have a single or several shareholders, how are its assets transferred and what are the procedures for disposal of those assets? Do the various entities of this organisation publish accounts and are they responsible to the Minister in any way?

There is significant cause for concern that this organisation seems to be funded differently from every other arts organisation. Why does it have a special funding line? Why is it not applying for grants under the access programme or otherwise? There must be clarity in this matter. It is up to the Minister to answer the questions about how this organisation is structured, who are its shareholders and beneficial owners and why they are benefiting in a special way.

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